Michel Barnier warns Europe is under threat from 'a Farage in every country'

Michel Barnier warned that Europe is under threat from ‘a Farage in every country’ (Getty Images)

Michel Barnier said today that Europe is now under threat from ‘a Farage in every country’.

The EU’s Brexit negotiator namechecked the former Ukip leader as he warned of the increasing threat of populism across the continent.

Speaking at the conference of the EPP, the EU’s main centre-right party, he said: “We will have to fight against those who want to demolish Europe with their fear, their populist deceit.”

He warned that the existence of the EU is ‘under threat’ in a speech that also touched on the deadlocked Brexit negotiations – without going into any great detail.

Mr Barnier pledged to ‘fulfil my Brexit mission to the end’ and warned once more that ‘the clock is ticking’.

The former french politician struggled to hold the room as he addressed the future of the EU, speaking to empty seats and a distracted crowd.

The most extraordinary thing about Barnier’s speech, literally NO-ONE is listening, I mean NO-ONE!!! Most ppl talking amongst themselves or went off to vote. Actually felt very disrespectful… He did not hold the room… pic.twitter.com/iwO0DFlu6I